Protesters storm Mexican Senate

On September 10, protesters stormed the chamber of the Mexican Senate as a debate on a controversial judicial reform bill was taking place. The move marked an escalation after weeks of widespread protests against the controversial judicial reform plan.

Protesters stormed the upper floor of the chamber, chanting slogans against the reforms. Senate President Jose Gerardo Fernandez adjourned the session and asked lawmakers to remain calm.

At 7 p.m. the same day (8 a.m. September 11, Vietnam time), the debate resumed at the former headquarters of the Mexican Senate, the Xicotencatl building.

Protesters enter the Mexican Senate building on September 10. Photo: Reuters

The controversial reform, proposed by outgoing Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, calls for universal suffrage for more than 6,500 judges and magistrates, including the Supreme Court.

The reform also proposes reducing the number of Supreme Court justices from 11 to nine, shortening their terms to 12 years and cutting the work experience requirement from 10 to five years.

Mr Lopez Obrador and President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum have strongly defended the reform, saying it is necessary to hold judges accountable and reduce corruption.

However, critics say this is a move to double the power of Mexico's ruling Morena party.

The United States and Canada, Mexico's main trading partners, have also warned that the reform could undermine the three-country trade agreement (USMCA) and negatively impact investment.

Ngoc Anh (according to AP, Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nguoi-bieu-tinh-xong-vao-thuong-vien-mexico-phien-hop-cai-cach-tu-phap-phai-tam-dung-post311731.html